Spring in Skardu and Hunza Valley 

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and some time to relax.  

In the afternoon, we begin our city tour of Islamabad. Our first stop is Daman-e-Koh, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views over the capital and the surrounding Margalla Hills. We then drive through Islamabad’s wide, modern boulevards, passing elegant buildings that blend contemporary design with Islamic architectural influences.  

We continue to the Lok Virsa Folk Heritage Museum, where you will gain insight into Pakistan’s rich cultural traditions and diverse heritage. The tour culminates at one of the largest mosques in the world the magnificent Shah Faisal Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and iconic symbol of the city.  

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.  

Hotel Options 

• Comfort Class: Marriott Hotel 

• Tourist Class: Burj-ul-Zaki, Grand, Ambrina Hotel   

Meals Included: Dinner  

In the morning, transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Skardu. During the flight, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Pakistani Himalayas and the mighty Karakoram. Please note that flights to Skardu are weather dependent; in case of bad weather, we will travel by road along the Karakoram Highway with an overnight stop at Chilas. 

Skardu is the capital of Baltistan and sits at an altitude of about 2,438 meters above sea level, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Karakoram. The Balti people are of Tibetan and Central Asian ancestry and speak Balti, an ancient form of Tibetan. Because of its culture, lifestyle, and architecture, Baltistan is often referred to as “Little Tibet.” 

In spring, the valleys around Skardu begin to turn green as the snow melts from the surrounding mountains, bringing fresh life to the landscape. 

After arrival, enjoy an afternoon visit around Skardu. We will explore the remarkable Sarfaranga Cold Desert, considered one of the highest cold deserts in the world at around 7,500 feet. The golden sand dunes set against the dramatic Karakoram mountains create a unique and striking landscape. Optional ATV or 4×4 jeep rides across the dunes can also be arranged. 

Hotel Options:  

• Comfort Class: PC Legacy    

• Tourist Class: Dynasty  

Meals Included: Breakfast–Dinner 

In the morning, drive to Shigar Valley to visit the historic Shigar Fort. Built in the 17th century on a large rock beside the Shigar stream, the fort once served as the residence of the Raja of Shigar. Beautifully restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, it now operates as a heritage hotel and museum and is one of the most impressive historical landmarks in Baltistan. 

Nearby, visit the historic Amburiq Mosque, believed to date back to the 14th century. The mosque reflects the early spread of Islam in Baltistan through the influence of Syed Ali Hamdani. 

After returning to Skardu, explore the town and visit the local bazaar along the banks of the Indus River, where you can experience local Balti culture and daily life. 

Later, hike up to Kharpocho Fort, also known as the “King of Forts.” Built in the late 16th century by Ali Sher Khan Anchan, the fort sits high above Skardu and offers panoramic views of the town, the Indus River, and surrounding valleys. 

Continue to the ancient Manthal Buddha Rock, an 8th-century rock carving that reflects the region’s early Buddhist heritage. Afterwards, drive to the beautiful Satpara Lake, a glacial lake known for its clear blue water and scenic mountain setting. 

Later visit Kachura Village to see the famous lakes of the area, including Upper Kachura Lake, a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by the Karakoram mountains, and Lower Kachura Lake, located within the beautiful Shangrila Resort Skardu. After spending time at the lakes, return to the hotel in Skardu for the night. 

Hotel Options:  

• Comfort Class: PC Legacy    

• Tourist Class: Dynasty  

Meals Included: Breakfast–Dinner 

In the morning, drive to Gilgit City along the Indus River.   

Continue driving to the capital city of Gilgit Baltistan. After lunch we visit the Kargah Buddha, carved into the rock and dated to the 7th century AD. Later, we will visit Gilgit Bazaar and the British cemetery. After lunch, we will continue driving along the Karakoram Highway to the Minapin Nagar Valley.  

Our next stop will be at Chalt Nagar, which marks the main Karakoram Thrust – the collision points of the Indo-Pakistani and Eurasian plates. We will also make a tea stop at the Rakaposhi Peak (7,788 m) viewpoint for some photography. 

Continue driving to Karimabad.  

Hotel Options 

• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel 

• Tourist Class: Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel 

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

Early this morning, enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the snow-capped peaks surrounding Hunza, including Ultar Sar, Rakaposhi, and Diran Peak. The changing colours over the mountains create a truly unforgettable scene. 

During spring, the villages of Hunza are especially beautiful as apricot, cherry, and apple trees bloom across the valley, adding soft pink and white colours to the landscape. 

After breakfast, we drive to Altit Village to visit the historic Altit Fort, originally built around 1,100 years ago. In spring, the traditional houses and orchards surrounding the village are decorated with beautiful apricot blossoms. 

Later, we visit Baltit Fort, constructed approximately 700 years ago. Over the centuries, the fort has been rebuilt and remodelled several times. In the 16th century, the Mir (King) of Hunza married a princess from Baltistan, who brought skilled Balti craftsmen as part of her dowry to renovate the palace. The architectural style clearly reflects strong Tibetan influences, highlighting the historical connection between Hunza and Baltistan. 

 The remainder of the day is free for leisure, relaxation, or exploring Karimabad Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel  

• Tourist Class: Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

After breakfast, drive along the scenic Karakoram Highway toward Upper Hunza Gojal. Our first stop is the historic Ganish Village, where we visit the beautifully preserved Ali Gohar House, a 400-year-old wooden house that received the UNESCO Heritage Award in 2009. 

During spring, the narrow streets and orchards of Ganish Village are surrounded by blooming fruit trees, making it one of the most charming villages to visit in Hunza. 

Continue the drive and stop at the stunning Attabad Lake for photos. As we travel further north, we will also stop to capture photos of the iconic Passu Cones, one of the most famous mountain landscapes in Hunza. 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

• Tourist Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

This morning, we will hike toward the viewpoint of the impressive Passu Glacier, also known as the Passu White Glacier, where you can capture stunning photos of the glacier and the surrounding Karakoram peaks. The viewpoint also offers excellent views of the iconic Passu Cones rising dramatically above the valley. 

Later, we take a short drive to Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Here you will have the chance to gingerly walk across the narrow rope bridge that stretches over the fast-flowing Hunza River, offering both an exciting experience and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. 

In the afternoon, continue to Gulmit. We will visit Gulmit Village, where we explore a well-preserved traditional Wakhi house and a handicraft center run by local women, showcasing beautiful handmade textiles and local crafts. 

In spring, the orchards around Gulmit are filled with blooming apricot trees, creating a colorful and peaceful village atmosphere. 

In the evening, enjoy a special local dinner in Gulmit, experiencing the warm hospitality and traditional flavors of the region. 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

• Tourist Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway towards Chilas, following the dramatic course of the Indus River. 

From Chilas, we continue via the spectacular Babusar Pass (weather permitting) into the beautiful Naran–Kaghan Valley. This high mountain pass offers breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, glaciers, and lush valleys along the way. 

Please note: The Naran–Kaghan route is open during the summer season. When Babusar Pass is closed, we will continue our journey via the Karakoram Highway to Besham instead. 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: North Retreat Or Besham Inn  

• Tourist Class: North Retreat Or Besham Inn  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

After breakfast, depart for Islamabad. On the way, stop at Taxila, one of the most important archaeological centres of the ancient Gandharan Buddhist civilisation. Visit the Taxila Museum, which displays a remarkable collection of Gandharan art and artefacts. 

Continue the drive to Islamabad. If time allows, there will be an optional stop for last-minute shopping at a local market before transferring to Islamabad International Airport for your evening flight. 

Meals Included: Breakfast